'No Words Can Make Sense of Today's Tragedy'

Second District Congresswoman-Elect Annie Kuster issued a statement Friday afternoon in response to the school shooting in Newtown, Conn. that left at least 27 people dead.

"No words can make sense of today's shocking tragedy or bring comfort to those whose lives have been shaken," Kuster said. "My thoughts and prayers, and those of the entire nation, are with the victims, their families, and the people of Newtown."

Second District Congressman Charles Bass issued this statement:

"My heart breaks for the victims of the senseless and despicable tragedy that occurred in Connecticut earlier today. Lisa and I join the people of New Hampshire in keeping the victims, their families and friends, and the people of Newtown, CT in our thoughts and prayers during this horrible tragedy, and we hope that they may begin to find some comfort and peace in the days and weeks ahead."

Gov. John Lynch also issued a statement, saying "Today's shooting in Connecticut, taking so many innocent lives, is a horrible tragedy. On behalf of the people of New Hampshire, our thoughts and prayers go out to those who have been wounded or killed, and to their loved ones."

Gov.-Elect Maggie Hassan called the shooting "an unbelievable and senseless tragedy," adding that "Tom's and my thoughts and prayers go out to the victims, families, students, teachers and entire community in Newtown, Connecticut."

Sen. Kelly Ayotte issued the following statement Friday evening:

"Words cannot adequately express the depth of our grief in the wake of today's senseless shootings in Connecticut.

As the mother of two young children, it's difficult for me to imagine a more horrific tragedy. My family joins citizens across New Hampshire and the nation in mourning the lives that were lost.

In the difficult days ahead, please keep the victims, their families, and the Newtown community in your thoughts and prayers."